Autism Spectrum Disorders and mental health disorders are often spoken of as if they were distinct categories of impairment. When viewed carefully, however, it becomes clear that ASD and mental illness exist on a continuum, with no “bright line” separating one from the other. In this presentation, Dr. Coplan will provide an overview of the relationship between ASD and mental illness, and urge the Autism community to make common cause with the mental health community, for the collective benefit of all of their members.

Friday children’s conference calls with Dr. Ken Duckworth, NAMI’s medical director and a child and adolescent psychiatrist, take place on the third Friday of every month. The calls are toll free and are scheduled from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. E.T. To access the toll-free call, please dial 1-888-858-6021; access number 309918#.